10 Easy steps to making a tote bag

These are the 10 Easy steps I used to make a fun tote bag. This really is an easy gift to make and it can be filled with lots of goodies. I must admit I’m not quite the sewer, but this one looks really impressive.

1. Decide on all the particulars e.g. the type of material, size and the shape you want.


2. I made a pattern using some spare brown paper, use whatever you have. Cut the paper into two identical rectangles (remember seam allowances). You can keep corners straight or make them round like mine. Mark out a long strip of paper as wide as you would like and cut out the long rectangle to form your centre panel. Mine was about 15cm wide. Pin your patterns onto the material and lining. Cut away!


3. Turn the material inside-out. Pin the front and back panels to the centre panel and leave the top open. Stitch both sides to the centre panel and voila! Your bag is starting to take shape. Do exactly the same with the lining.


4. Now the fun starts. Place the material you chose for the outside inside the lining (you're basically doing everything inside-out).


5. Pin all around top and neatly stitch them together. I've found it works best if the materials aren't too thick.


6. Make the handles by cutting out two identical strips of material. Keep in mind that they have to be in proportion to your bag. Fold the strips in half with the side you want to show on the inside. Pin and stitch them to be as wide as you would prefer. Turn them over by using a knitting needle or similar object.


7. Finish the top of the bag by stitching a double-seam.


8. Mark out the places where you want to attach the handles. Attach them by sewing in a block formation.


9. Use some lace or ribbon as a trim around the top edge.


10. Fill it with lots of goodies and bless one of your friends with a gorgeous handbag!

Mine was made out of a really cool maroon and white striped material with a rose print centre panel and handles. I must admit, I'm a bit of a mix 'n match addict.

I'm not supposed to be blogging right now though. Writing Chemistry tomorrow. Not cool. Haven't opened my books yet. Wish I could swap them for a nice fluffly patchwork pillow.

Back soon! Will post pics later

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